Protein is one of the key building blocks of your hair. If you aren't getting enough your hair is not likely to continue growing in healthy, strong and thick.

This doesn't mean you need to eat a lot more meat. You can get protein from vegetarian sources that will generally be healthier for your entire body.

Vitamin deficiencies can also show up in your hair, causing premature greying, hair loss, or just dull hair. A healthy diet can help you avoid these.

It is very important to note, of course, that genetics play a role as well, and the healthiest of diets can't beat something that is going to happen to you no matter what. But you can certainly try!

Just as with any other healthy diet, the basic recommendation for growing healthy hair is to eat a low fat diet with plenty of whole grains, fruits, vegetables and fish. Leafy green vegetables can be particularly good for you. Avoid extremely fatty meats and fast foods. These are good for occasional indulgences, but not as regular fare.

Your hair also appreciates many of the B vitamins. Whole grains, fruit and fish are among the sources for these. But don't forget vitamins C, E or A. These are also important to healthy hair.

It's important to take steps like these and to remember that there is only so much you can do for your hair once it has grown. Treating the hair on your head can help it, but eating right will help it to look its best.

You'll also never beat genetics entirely. You can do your best to eat right, but if people in your family tend to suffer from premature grey hair or hair loss, you're probably going to face that as well.

Make sure you combine healthy eating habits with good treatment to your hair as well. Use a boar bristle brush to help spread the natural oils of your hair along its entire length. Avoid the use of hot air blow dryers, curling and straightening irons, and the harsh chemicals using in many hair colors and perm solutions. Abusing your hair can set back your hair growth significantly, as well as give it poor texture and make it harder to manage.

Successfully growing beautiful long hair requires a combination of factors, not all of which are within your control. Make the most of what you do control.